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Understanding the F-1 Visa Landscape For the 2026 academic year, the United States remains the top destination for international research and innovation. To study here, most students will need to secure an F-1 Student Visa, which requires an official I-20 form from a SEVP-certified institution.
Key 2026 Financial Requirements You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses for at least the first year of study. While costs vary by state, students should budget between $35,000 and $65,000 annually for a comprehensive experience at a top-tier university.
STEM OPT Extensions A major advantage for 2026 graduates in STEM fields is the ability to apply for a 24-month OPT extension, allowing for a total of 3 years of work experience in the US after graduation.
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Written By
Sayali Yadav
Sayali Yadav has been living in Germany for the past four years. She holds a Master’s degree in Quantitative Molecular Biology from Humboldt University of Berlin, one of Germany’s top five universities and home to over 50 Nobel Laureates. She has worked at the Nobel Laureate’s Charpentier Lab at the Max Planck Institute and at the Max Delbrück Center in Berlin. She is also the co-founder of Edulx, an initiative that guides Indian students in securing admission to German public universities and supports them throughout their academic journey.